Residents of Houma’s Acadian Drive summoned officials from the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Officials showed up with a trap, but it proved unnecessary. After a few hours the bear climbed down and wandered away.

Department officials say people should avoid encounters with bears. People in residential areas near bear populations should store garbage in containers or double bag it and frequently wash their trash cans. Other tips are to not leave pet food out overnight, hang bird feeders higher than 10 feet (3 meters) and clean outdoor grills frequently.